Mumbai: IIT Bombay has removed Prof Suryanarayana Doolla as dean amid protests over the death by suicide of 20-year-old student Sahil Wakode on September 18.
Doolla, from the Department of Energy Science and Engineering, was the invigilator during the examination in which Wakode was allegedly found using a mobile phone and seeking answers through ChatGPT.
The institute had earlier said Wakode was counselled after the incident and that no disciplinary action had been initiated against him.
Action Follows Student Protests
Doolla’s removal came after IIT Bombay Director Prof Shireesh Kedare signed an 18-point charter submitted by protesting students following three days of agitation on campus.
The charter sought action against Doolla, along with an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Wakode’s death. Students have also demanded an interim inquiry report by September 30 and a final report by October 15.
Wakode’s parents have alleged harassment and caste-based discrimination, and Doolla’s name was included in an FIR registered following their complaint. The allegations are under investigation.
The institute’s Faculty Forum had earlier defended Doolla, saying he followed established examination procedures while reporting the alleged malpractice.
The 18-point charter also includes demands for improved counselling and medical services, mental-health measures, greater student representation and an implementation plan for the proposed reforms.
Separately, IIT Bombay has clarified that Director Shireesh Kedare has not resigned and will continue in his position.
